Thickening of the Uterine Lining and Fluid Filled Sac in Cats

Pyometra and Cystic Endometrial Hyperplasia in Cats

The abnormal thickening (pyometra) of the uterus' lining can affect cats at any age, although it is more common in cats that are six years of age or older. Cystic endometrial hyperplasia, meanwhile, is a medical condition characterized by the presence of pus-filled cyst inside the cat's uterus, causing the endometrium to enlarge (also known as hyperplasia).

The prognosis is often positive for both conditions. However, if the cervix is closed, it can be a life threatening condition requiring immediate medical attention.

These two conditions can affect both dogs and cats. If you would like to learn more about how pyometra and cystic endometrial hyperplasia affects dogs, please visit this page in the PetMD health library.

Symptoms and Types

Signs may include:

Depression

Lethargy

Vomiting

Closed cervix

Vulvar (vaginal) discharge

Lack of appetite (anorexia)

Frequent urination (polyuria)

Abdominal distention (from an enlarged uterus)

Causes

One of the known causes of this condition repeat exposure to estrogen and progesterone. The formation of cystic endometrial hyperplasis is often progressive, often following the development of a thickened uterine lining.

Intact older female cats that have never given birth are at a higher risk pyometra or cystic endometrial hyperplasia.

Diagnosis

Your veterinarian will perform an examination to review the type and severity of your cat's discharge, as well as to view whether the cervix is open or closed. X-rays and ultrasounds will be used detect the size of the uterus, and to determine if the cat is pregnant.

progesterone

pus

pyometra

uterus

The hollow bodily organ that holds the embryo and fetus and provides nourishment; only found in female animals.

polyuria

Excessive urination

lavage

Irritating tissue with a great deal of some type of fluid

distention

The process of making something larger by dilating or stretching it

endometrium

The innermost layer of the uterus

estrogen

The type of female hormone produced in the ovaries that contributes to sex drive and female characteristics

estrus

The time period in which a female is receptive to male attention

breeding value

The maximum potential that an animal has as far as its potential profit in terms of meat, eggs, milk, or other goods useful to people; may also refer to their ability to mate and birth and nurse young.